The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved moving forward on an ordinance that would hold property owners responsible for the use of illegal fireworks at their homes and businesses.

The 5-0 vote came at the August 26, meeting at the request of Supervisor Dave Cortese in response to complaints from residents about the discharging of illegal fireworks that continue to disturb neighborhoods and pose fire and safety dangers even after July 4 celebrations.

ÒThe use of illegal fireworks has gotten to be more than a nuisance in our neighborhoods,Ó said Supervisor Cortese. ÒThey pose a real danger to our residents.Ó

The proposed ordinance would hold property owners responsible for the use of illegal fireworks regardless of who discharged them except in the case of trespassers. The ordinance would apply to all residents and businesses in unincorporated Santa Clara County.

The ordinance will be patterned after the CountyÕs Social Host Responsibility Ordinance that holds property owners responsible for under-age drinking parties.

For more information, contact the Office of Supervisor Dave Cortese at (408) 299-5030.